Updates from the APPG on Family Hubs

The APPG on Family Hubs brings together parliamentarians and stakeholders from across the family support sector to champion policies and services that strengthen family relationships, improve outcomes for children and ensure families can access support when and where they need it. The APPG focuses on the role of Family Hubs and integrated family support services in improving the wellbeing of children, young people and their families.

Updates and insights from the APPG on Family Hubs

We sat down with Tia, Head of Partnerships, to find out more about the most recent APPG meeting hosted on October 22nd 2026.

The APPG is led by a cross-party group of MPs and Peers who share an interest in improving outcomes for children and families. Membership includes parliamentarians from across both Houses, supported by organisations and experts working in family support, early intervention and children's services.

Which key stakeholders are involved in the APPG on Family Hubs?

The APPG convenes a broad range of stakeholders, including charities, service providers, academics, policy experts, local authorities, practitioners and people with lived experience. This collaborative approach helps ensure that parliamentary discussions are informed by evidence, practice and the voices of families themselves.

What happened during the roundtable?

This roundtable explored the experiences and support needs of children and families affected by parental imprisonment. The session brought together experts and practitioners to discuss the challenges these families face and identify opportunities to strengthen support through Family Hubs, community services and wider public services.

Research consistently shows that children affected by parental imprisonment face a heightened risk of adverse outcomes, including poorer mental health, educational disruption, financial hardship and social stigma. Despite this, they often remain a hidden and underserved group. The APPG wants to better understand these challenges and consider how family support services and policymakers can respond more effectively.

Who is speaking or giving evidence, and why were they chosen?

The roundtable will hear from organisations and individuals with specialist expertise in supporting children and families affected by imprisonment, alongside those with lived experience. Contributors have been invited because of their knowledge, evidence and direct experience of the issues being explored.

There were a variety of stakeholders from both local authorities and VCSE organisations working with prisons and Family Hubs, including Lucy Binns & Stacey Henry (Spurgeons) Sue Campbell (Liverpool City Council) Sophie Kirkland (Action for Children).

What was discussed?

Discussions focused on:

The impact of parental imprisonment on children and family relationships.

Gaps in current support and service provision.

The role of Family Hubs and local family support services.

Opportunities for earlier intervention and better cross-agency working.

What policymakers can do to improve outcomes for affected children and families.

Taking action - why does this issue need parliamentary attention?

Children of prisoners are frequently described as one of the most overlooked groups in society. Many experience significant emotional, practical and financial challenges, yet they are not routinely identified by services and can struggle to access appropriate support.

There is growing recognition of the importance of family relationships in both child wellbeing and rehabilitation outcomes. As government and local areas continue to develop Family Hubs and integrated family support services, there is an opportunity to ensure that children affected by parental imprisonment are not overlooked.

Who is affected by this issue, and how?

Parental imprisonment affects entire families, but particularly children. It can lead to anxiety, grief, disrupted routines, educational difficulties, social isolation and financial hardship. Caregivers and wider family members can also face increased pressures whilst trying to support children through a difficult period

Why does this topic matter to Spurgeons?

For many years, Spurgeons has worked alongside children and families affected by the criminal justice system. Through this work we have seen first-hand the profound impact that parental imprisonment can have on children's emotional wellbeing, family relationships and life opportunities. We have also seen how access to the right support at the right time can make a significant difference. This roundtable provides an opportunity to bring those experiences into parliamentary discussions and help ensure that the voices of affected children and families are heard.